Badlands National Park: Perfect 1-Day Itinerary

Overview

Badlands National Park is one of the best national parks to explore in a single day. This itinerary focuses on the park’s highlights, combining short hikes, scenic drives, wildlife viewing, and sunset viewpoints- all at a comfortable pace.

Morning

Notch Trail

Enter Through the Northeast Entrance

Start your day early by entering through the Northeast Entrance near Wall, South Dakota. This puts you right onto the Badlands Loop Road and into the heart of the park’s most dramatic scenery.

Hike the Notch Trail (1.5 miles roundtrip)

The Notch Trail is one of the most iconic hikes in the park. It features a short ladder climb and ends with sweeping views of the White River Valley. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water, as parts of the trail are steep and exposed.

Hike the Door Trail (0.9 miles)

This popular trail leads you through a break in the Badlands formations and out to an open viewing area, offering a unique perspective of the landscape.

Stop at the Ben Reifel Visitor Ceter

After your hikes, stop by the Ben Reifel Visitor Center to learn more about the park’s geology, wildlife, and history. The visitor also has restrooms, water refill stations, and a bookstore.

Afternoon

Roberts Prairie Dog Town

Drive the Badlands Loop Road

Spend the afternoon driving the scenic Badlands Loop Road (Highway 24o). This 39-mile drive offers countless pullouts and overlooks.

Must-stop overlooks include:

• Big Badlands Overlook
• Yellow Mounds Overlook
• Pinnacles Overlook (great for spotting bighorn sheep)

Picnic Lunch

Pack a lunch and stop at one of the picnic areas or scenic pullouts along the loop road.

Visit Roberts Prairie Dog Town

After lunch, visit Roberts Prairie Dog Town to watch the prairie dogs in their natural habitat.

Fossil Exhibit Trail (0.25 miles)

This short boardwalk trail highlights the fossils found within the park and is an easy, educational stop.

Evening

Sage Rim Road

Wildlife Viewing on Sage Creek Rim Road

Drive slowly along Sage Creek Rim Road, where you’re likely to encounter bison, pronghorn, and other wildlife, especially in the evening hours.

Sunset at Panorama Point

End your day at Panorama Point for a stunning Badlands sunset, when the rock formations glow with changing colors.

Camping

If you’re camping, consider staying at Sage Creek Campgroud, a free, first-come, first-served campground within the park. This is where I stayed during my visit, and it ended up being one of the most memorable camping experiences I’ve had. While there isn’t much privacy, the stargazing is incredible- and I got to experience a bison walking right past my tent when I was trying to fall asleep.

Alternatively, Cedar Pass Campground offers reservable sites with more amenities. Booking in advance is high recommeded, especially during peak season.